Your Mental Health Crisis Call Sheet

A mental breakdown is a medical emergency just like any other. Learn what to expect, and how to react, in difficult times

By
Men's Health

05/02/2019

Getty Imagesdigitalskillet

Who Should I Call First?

Whether you need expert advice or simply could do with a listening ear, there are several charities available. Samaritans’ free helpline (116 123) is open 24 hours a day. The Mind Infoline (0300 123 3393) provides information on a range of topics and is open from 9am to 6pm. The CALM helpline (0800 58 58 58), especially for men, is open from 5pm to midnight. It also has a web chat service, if you’re more comfortable typing: thecalmzone.net/help/webchat.

If you need advice but the situation doesn’t feel life-threatening, you can call the NHS on 111 in England or on 0845 46 47 in Wales. Alternatively, call your GP and ask for an emergency appointment – but never be afraid to dial 999 if there’s a risk of serious harm.

Is There Any Way to Plan For a Crisis?

You can start by visiting mind.org.uk, which offers plenty of useful information about living with a mental health problem, or supporting someone who is. You can also ask your mental health-care providers about creating something called a joint crisis plan, covering everything from your first choice of hospital to arrangements such as notifying work.

You can also ask about making advance decisions, setting out which treatments you would like to refuse should you lose your capacity to make choices.

When Is It Appropriate to Go to A&E?

If you ever feel unable to keep yourself or the person you’re with safe, go to A&E – even as a precautionary measure.

Can I Be Treated at Home Instead?

In some cases, local crisis teams – made up of psychiatrists, nurses and social workers – can be considered before hospitalisation. They can make regular home visits to keep an eye on your wellbeing and to offer self-help strategies.

You might be referred to a crisis team after visiting A&E or your GP, and it should be on call 24/7 – though you might not always be able to get in touch with someone immediately.

What About Hospitalisation?

If you’re at risk of harm and it’s not possible to support you at home, a doctor might admit you to hospital. But you have a right to be involved in your own care plan. You can also ask to be referred as a voluntary patient, but as beds are limited, they may decide to prioritise others.

As for “sectioning” (the term for hospitalising someone under the Mental Health Act), this only occurs if your own safety is at risk, or to protect others. It’s not a decision that’s taken lightly, and it requires an agreement from multiple professionals.

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